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Vagabond
Why it's a gem
This one stands out for its seriousness. Based on the life of a legendary swordsman, it follows a violent young man who slowly searches for meaning along the road, and it deals with samurai, swordplay and philosophy in a patient way.
The pace is deliberate and reflective, closer to a literary seinen drama than a quick fight manga, and readers rate it very highly.
It started in 1998 and is still ongoing, so the story is not finished and new chapters can be slow to come. It suits readers who like historical fiction and thoughtful character study, and who can accept an unfinished story.
AnimeGems editor's note
Synopsis
At seventeen years of age, Miyamoto Musashi--still known by his childhood name, Shinmen Takezo--was a wild young brute just setting out along the way of the sword. In the aftermath of the epic Battle of Sekigahara, Takezo finds himself a fugitive survivor on the losing side of the war. Takezo's vicious nature has made him an outcast even in his own village, and he is hunted down like an animal. At this crucial crossroads in Takezo's life, an eccentric monk and a childhood friend are the only ones who can help him find his way. (Source: VIZ Media)
Ratings
Available On
Characters
Matahachi Honiden
main
Musashi Miyamoto
main
Kojirou Sasaki
main
Touji Gion
supporting
Ryouhei Ueda
supporting
Inei Houzouin
supporting
Seijuro Yoshioka
supporting
Ittousai Itou
supporting
Denshichirou Yoshioka
supporting
Inshun Hozoin
supporting
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